Kindergarten: Here We Come!

The YMCA’s Pre-K program concluded its school year with a graduation ceremony on May 16, 2024, in its Youth Development Center, Marco Island. 100% of the Pre-K students earned the designation “Kindergarten Ready” by successfully achieving the benchmarks of the Collier County Public Schools Kindergarten Ready Curriculum. 

The Pre-K program is part of the Y’s Early Learning School which has 46 students, ages ranging from two to five years old.

Scores of proud parents gathered for the festivities and watched their children march in wearing the traditional cap and gown dress and performing several musical productions. Once gathered, the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance by the students and crowd began the program.

Y educators Donnalee Petit-Fort, Mirella Ramirez, Charlene Rose, and Mirella Cruz provided the “welcoming” remarks and the presentation of “diplomas” and awards.

Each of the graduates individually came forward and was recognized for their achievement and received an award that was unique to themself. 

Parents remarked how delighted they were with the Y’s Early Learning School, many of whom had their children enrolled for several years. A common theme that the parents expressed was the growth, both academically and socially, that they saw in their children over the years. In addition, parents commented on the safe and clean environment that the Y’s Youth Development Center provided for the children.